Packaging technology

Mobile NIR spectroscopy solution differentiates between PET-A and PET-G

BASF subsidiary TrinamiX is expanding the range of applications for its handheld solution: in addition to on-site identification of more than 30 plastics, PET-A can now also be distinguished from PET-G.

TrinamiX, a provider of mobile spectroscopy and a wholly owned subsidiary of BASF, is now also supporting the following with its mobile NIR spectroscopy solution the flexible differentiation between PET-A and PET-G. This adds another application to the handheld solution for on-site identification of more than 30 different plastics and provides information about the type of PET in a sample at the touch of a button.

Amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (PET-A for short) is one of the most important thermoplastics. PET-A is a popular material for recyclable packaging for food, cosmetics and hygiene products. PET-G is a modified PET that has been mixed with glycol. As a result, PET-G is more transparent than PET-A, which remains stable even after heating. In addition, molten PET-G has a lower viscosity. These properties favour applications in the areas of packaging, 3D printing and visible parts, for example.

The separation of PET-G and PET-A by type is important for several reasons: Firstly only single-origin materials can be fully recycled. Due to different melting ranges, recycling a mixture of PET-A and PET-G is difficult. In addition, blends have a negative effect on the desired properties, for example temperature stability. Finally, there is also an economic component: Single-variety PET-G generally achieves higher prices on the market than PET-A.

„In view of increasingly complex waste streams, recycling companies are faced with major challenges when it comes to feeding materials into their plants in pure form. We are therefore working together with our customers and partners to continuously expand the scope of our offering. We offer a solution that enables decentralised sorting and quality checks and provides added value wherever industrial solutions reach their limits.“ Adrian Vogel, Manager Sales and Business Development Spectroscopy Solutions at trinamiX

The new application will be efor the first time at the K trade fair in Düsseldorf to the general public. Visitors are cordially invited to experience live demonstrations of the solution at the BASF stand.

BASF at the K 2022: Hall 5, Stand C21/D21